BY: GODFRED ANKU KAALI
The Eastern Regional branch of the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, GACC, has organized an educational session for junior High School, JHS, pupils of Effiduase Methodist Basic A and B Schools in Koforidua as part of activities marking this year’s African Union Anti-Corruption Day, AUACD.
This year’s AUACD, commemoration, held under the theme, “Promoting Human Dignity in the Fight Against Corruption”, focuses on creating awareness and empowering the next generation to resist corruption and uphold integrity.
During the engagement, the students were sensitized on the concept of corruption, its adverse effects on society, and the importance of upholding transparency and accountability. They were also introduced to key legal instruments such as the Whistleblower Act, 2006 (Act 720)and the Witness Protection Act, 2018 (Act 975), which provide avenues for reporting corrupt practices and ensuring the safety of individuals who expose wrongdoing.
In an interview with GBC News, a member of the GACC Eastern Regional team, Nana Akuamoah, observed that there is a need to educate children on the importance of protecting the public purse, so they will be empowered to report corruption when they encounter it.
He added that instilling such values in young people is a proactive way to break the cycle of corruption, as they will be better positioned to reject corrupt practices, demand accountability, and contribute positively to national development.
“Children are the leaders of tomorrow, and if we want a future free from corruption, we must start by shaping their minds today. Providing them with anti-corruption education helps them to imbibe integrity and a strong moral compass at a young age. These values, once internalized, will guide their actions and decisions as they grow into adulthood. Ultimately, this will lead to the development of a more ethical society and a better Ghana for all”, he said.
The interactive session forms part of a broader campaign by the GACC to promote integrity in schools, communities, and public institutions across the Eastern Region. The pupils expressed appreciation for the knowledge gained and pledged to act as ambassadors of anti-corruption within their schools, homes, and the society.
